These are just some of the new possibilities included in new materials released this weekend regarding Interstate 81's future in Syracuse.

None of the proposals are final or complete. Rather, they are part of the state's Department of Transportation's "draft scoping report." This document marks the next big step for the future of I-81 in Syracuse, both for the transportation officials planning the project and for motorists and residents who want a say in the highway's reshaping.

The plans still include four basic options: rebuild the viaduct, replace it with a street-level boulevard, depress the highway or tunnel underground.

The report doesn't explain exactly what land or buildings might be needed for each
of the alternatives, though more-detailed maps are provided. New cost estimates
are provided. No new traffic analysis is included.

The elevated section of I-81 that passes between downtown Syracuse and University
Hill will reach the end of its useful life in 2017. State and federal highway officials are undertaking a massive project to rebuild the highway. The project includes improving the interchange with I-81 and Interstate 690.

What to do? First, read. (I put the part of the report outlining the 16 alternatives below.) This latest set of documents explains the 16 alternatives currently under consideration by transportation officials. The info released Saturday expands on the details the DOT released this spring in an informational session at the Everson Museum of Art.

Second, mark your calendars. The next important date is June 26. That day,
transportation officials will hold another open session at the Oncenter to explain the project's alternatives and take official public comments on the project. That open comment period will last until Sept. 2, longer than originally stated.

If you can't make the June 26 meeting, don't worry. The project information will
be available online and at the I-81 project center in the former Carnegie Library. People will be able to comment online or through letters. A stenographer will also be available at the June 26 meeting.